This was part of the final phase of our remodel to say goodbye to our Southern California home in style.

Over the years, the atrium had gone through many redesigns. But we had always wanted to add awnings with the option of covering them with translucent panels to bring more shade to the center of the home during the hot summer days.

Of course, when you're a busy general contractor, the less critical and more creative projects for your own home tend to go on the back burner.

So, this one was more a gift to the new owners, and it really was. They loved it.

The reclaimed wood came from many projects over the years. We knew one day it would go to something special and here it is.

What’s more, our son helped out, and got to learn some additional building techniques along the way.